Chelsea Clinton / Evan Agostini, Invision/AP

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

President Obama's inaugural committee said Tuesday that former first daughter Chelsea Clinton will be the honorary chair for the 2013 National Day of Service, a Saturday event that kicks off weekend inaugural festivities.

"There is no more fitting way to mark a presidential inauguration than a day of service," said Clinton, daughter of former president Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. "Coming together as a country to strengthen our communities has always been part of the American spirit."

Clinton also said: "I am deeply grateful that President Obama and his administration have put service at the center of the Inauguration weekend and I am proud to be part of a nation-wide service effort, honoring the service and legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and building a brighter future for all of us."

Organizations in all 50 states are sponsoring volunteer events Saturday, commemorating both the Obama inauguration and the King holiday on Monday.

Obama, who defeated Mrs. Clinton in the 2008 Democratic primaries, will be sworn in for a second term on Sunday; a public inaugural and parade will be held Monday.

"We are thrilled that Chelsea Clinton will play such a critical role in mobilizing Americans across the country to take part in the National Day of Service," said Steve Kerrigan, president and CEO of the Presidential Inaugural Committee.

He added: "Through her work with the Clinton Foundation and her recent efforts to help communities impacted by Hurricane Sandy, Chelsea sets a remarkable example for serving and strengthening our country. As honorary chair, she will be instrumental in helping lead the president's call to service and growing this important tradition."